3. Even high-calorie diets should be high in quality
Plenty of players need to add weight to their frames when they’re gearing up for the season. Instead of going for high-fat foods, they stick with healthy choices at a high volume. We hear nutrition experts talk about the importance of consuming quality calories, meaning foods that provide a lot of nutritional value for the amount of calories. A simple side-by-side comparison can illustrate the difference. Just 19 Cheetos pack 138 calories, more than 9 grams of fat, and not much else. Instead of going for this crunchy snack, you would be better off eating 3 ounces of chicken, which is a similar 139 calories, but has only about 3 grams of fat, and roughly 27 grams of protein. The choice is pretty easy.
This strategy is one Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle Matt Kalil implements in his routine. Even though he needs a whopping 5,000 to 6,000 calories every day, he wants to make sure he’s bulking the right way. According to the Pioneer Press, Kalil meets his goal with lean protein and healthy carbs for meals and supplementing with peanut butter and jelly sandwiches as well as protein shakes. Though it’s a more difficult way to add weight, it ensures he’s putting on muscle rather than just fat.